Roland just released Zenbeats version 2 and it's a bit easier to work with MIDI files now. In this post, I'll tell you how to install MIDI loops into Zenbeats, how to import them and how to access the program's editor feature.
Downloads
Click here to download MIDI loops for Zenbeats
Click here to download our Zenbeats v2 MIDI import guide
Note: Zenbeats needs Type 0 MIDI files. We can supply Type 0 files for any purchases you've made from us. Please contact support with your request.
Installing MIDI Files
First, you need to find your Zenbeats 'MIDI Patterns' folder.
PC location: C:\Users\<user name>\Zenbeats User\MIDI Patterns
Mac location: Users/<user name>/Zenbeats User/MIDI Patterns
You now add folders to the MIDI Patterns folder! This is a big improvement over version 1.
You can copy any folder of Type 0 files you have into the MIDI Patterns folder and they'll be ready the next time you open Zenbeats.
Importing MIDI Files
It takes 3 steps to import a MIDI file into Zenbeats. Open Zenbeats and follow these steps. Here's the page we're starting from...
Step 1
To open the next screen, click on the button as shown below...
 
Step 2
Right click the track icon to open your track options...
Step 3
Click ‘Import MIDI File’ and select a file...
Here's how an imported MIDI file (Type 0) will look in Zenbeats:
Remember to use Type 0 files. Type 1 files will appear empty! In my experience, they won't play either. Again, we can supply Type 0 files if you've made any purchases from us.
You can drag loops to the right or left to change their length...
Opening the Zenbeats Editor
Double click anywhere on the MIDI note data to open the options menu.
Select 'Editor' to edit but as you can see in the image above, there are many other options available from this menu.
Summary
Zenbeats version 2 is a nice upgrade. The ability to add folders to the 'MIDI Patterns' folder is a huge improvement. They're still missing the ability to audition MIDI files but there are high priced music programs lacking that ability as well (Logic and Pro Tools, for example). And it's surprising that it doesn't seem to work with Type 1 files.
Zenbeats is a light-weight music-making app that you can run on just about any system. At the very least, it should be a good tool to use when sketching out your musical ideas.
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